Autism in Children
Also known as: autism spectrum disorder or ASD, autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), Asperger syndrome.
What is autism?
Autism refers to a group of neurodevelopmental disorders that makes it difficult for a child to interact socially, communicate verbally and non-verbally and connect with people. This makes everyday functioning difficult with other children and at school problematic.
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to the wide range of symptoms with which children might be affected- some more severely, some less so.
- Asberger Syndrome and pervasive developmental disorders belong to the same broad category of developmental disorders. This group of disorders affects all racial and ethnic people's as well as families at all socioeconomic levels.
What causes autism?
It appears that both genetics and environmental factors play a role in causing autism. Neither the way parents behave or vaccines in use today are a cause.
What are the symptoms of autism?
Infants and children behave differently to their siblings and friends of the same age. They may not make eye contact, not interact with parents or play with friends (in a crowded environment they may become very emotional) and may make repetitive movements. All forms of social communication between them and parents, siblings, family members and friends is awkward and sometimes inappropriate. They may speak in a flat tone and repeat themselves many times on topics of their interest.
Many might develop epilepsy and have seizures. Some children and adults with autism may have great skills in a variety of different forms, i.e: mathematics, the arts, etc.
What are autism care options?
There is no cure for autism; it is a permanent condition. However, therapy can help reduce disruptive behaviors and education can increase the individual’s ability to become more independent.
The earlier in life that a child with autism is diagnosed and starts to receive treatment for his particular symptoms or difficulties, the more beneficial it will be. Each child's autism is unique so required treatment options vary.
Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP
This page was last updated on: July 28, 2023 03:26 PM
April 14, 2021 – Why is my child not communicating? Why are mealtimes such a battle? These are some of the questions that speech-language therapists are asked when first meeting families seeking therapy for a young child. Sometimes, it is not just a lack of “speech” or difficulties eating that are the focus of our evaluation. Sometimes we are the first to tell parents or caregivers that the child has what we call “red flags for autism.”
August 10, 2018 –
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder may present with behavioral management problems in the dental setting due to increased anxiety, fear and increased sensory stimulation.
Related Podcasts
Join us as we speak with Dr. Abigail Ley, pediatric neurologist at Nicklaus Children's, about Autism Spectrum Disorders: Navigating early diagnosis, therapies, and resources for children with autism.
Abril es el mes dedicado a crear conciencia sobre el autismo. En este episodio nos acompaña Maggie, una madre con dos hijos diagnosticados con autismo, para brindar consejos y crear conciencia sobre este diagnóstico que afecta a 1 de cada 36 niños en los Estados Unidos.
Related Videos
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It typically appears in early childhood, and parents and caregivers may notice signs and symptoms as early as 12 to 18 months of age. Learn the signs of autism for early detection and care.